Name: John S
Where did you grow up? Western Washington, in a rural setting with horses and birds and nine acres to explore.
Where do you live now? Western Washington, at the foot of the Cascades.
3 things we should know about you?
- I’m a dad first, husband second, adventurer third.
- We have three kids and a dog that love the outdoors. We snowshoe, hike, camp, and flyfish all over the Northwest.
- I’m as content sitting in the quiet of the woods as I am on top of the highest mountains.
When did you first try snowshoeing? March 7, 2003. Two hiking friends and I rented snowshoes to explore the trails around Snoqualmie Pass. After a day on the trail I declared I’d never rent snowshoes again because the next time I’d own a pair.
Favorite beverage while snowshoeing?
- With kids: Hot cocoa
- Without kids: Hot cocoa and espresso vodka
Favorite snack while on the trails?
- While actually moving I love M&Ms (they work great as motivators for my Junior Ambassadors), beef jerky, and Snickers Marathon bars.
- At camp, there’s nothing better than potato chips. I favor Pringles in snack packs because they’re less likely to crush.
What words do you live by? Work to live, not the other way around.
Dream vacation?
- Mt. Killimanjaro with my kids.
- South Island of New Zealand
What is your favorite place to snowshoe? Mt. Rainier National Park or anywhere above treeline.
Cat or dog? A dog strong enough to carry a pack.
Ice cream or gelato? Ice cream, unless I’m in Italy.
Sunrise or sunset? There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the sun rise above the clouds after you’ve been climbing for hours.
Anything else we should know? I will gladly take any opportunity to spend time outside with my family.